Augsburg College

     Firmly grounded in the liberal arts tradition, political science has roots in the humanities, including philosophy and history. Through its use of statistical analysis, it relates not only to other behavioral sciences, but also to mathematics and the sciences generally. The role and significance of authority in human affairs establish the focus of political science; because politics is a central and enduring reality in the world, it affects and is affected by many other human concerns.

     As an academic discipline, political science uses systematic inquiry and analysis to examine political reality and to suggest and test alternatives. The student who majors in political science will explore political ideas and values, investigate political cooperation and conflict, analyze and compare political systems and develop perspectives on international relations. In the process, the student will be encouraged to relate insights from other liberal arts disciplines such as philosophy, psychology, economics, history, and sociology to the study of politics.

     Providing work in several sub-fields of political science, the major supplies the breadth appropriate for graduate work in the discipline, as well as in public administration, public policy analysis, law and other professions. It also serves as a foundation on which to develop careers in public service, business, communications and other fields. Legislative and other Internships, as well as significant independent research projects, are within easy reach of Augsburg Political Science students in the Twin Cities area. Combined with broad, balanced and flexible course offerings, these special opportunities enhance the student's potential for graduate study and a successful career.

     Augsburg Political Science students have the benefit of an experienced faculty that brings a balanced expertise to the course offerings, as well as special strengths in interpreting politics in the contexts of the mass communications media, communism, and American public law. The Department faculty is committed to the view that the study of politics, involving as it does an understanding of the human heritage and the importance of informed choice in human affairs, is an important aspect of liberal learning.